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14.03.2022Bayer 04

Flick on Wirtz: ‘He will come back at least as strong’

The fear was sadly confirmed on Saturday evening 13 March: Werkself youngster Florian Wirtz suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the first half of the derby against FC Köln (0-1). The 18-year-old will be out of action for several months. Numerous get well messages and encouraging words have already come in from across Germany following the diagnosis. They are all unanimous: Flo will come back stronger!
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One of the first people to contact Florian Wirtz by phone was Hansi Flick. The Germany coach said after talking to the four-time international: "Florian Wirtz is one of the biggest talents German football has produced in recent years. Therefore, we were all shocked when we heard about the torn cruciate," said the 57-year-old. "I've tried to comfort him. He is still young and he will come back at least as strong, I'm convinced of that. He will receive our full support."

Wendell, Schweini and Co. also get in touch

The list of other teammates and former Leverkusen players as well as from Germany wishing Wirtz a speedy recovery is long. FC Köln head coach Steffen Baumgart said after the game: "Of course, I wish Florian Wirtz well. I hope he's soon back on his feet. It was a shock for all of us." At the same time, he had clear words for the fans who made derisive comments when the former FC Köln youth player was carried off the pitch. "That's out of order. There's nothing more to say about it."

Everybody at Bayer 04 is crossing their fingers: Come back stronger, Flo!

 

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